New Delhi: In the wake of coronavirus outbreak, insurance sector regulator IRDAI has allowed insurers to submit their reinsurance plans for 2020-21 with a lag as the pandemic has disrupted operations across sectors.

Issuing guideline on relaxation of timelines for certain provisions of the IRDAI (Re-insurance) Regulations, 2018, the sectoral watchdog said in view of COVID-19 pandemic, the government has initiated various measures including enforcement of lock-down in various areas.

Representational image. Reuters.

Similar steps are also initiated by governments of various countries which could result in disruption in the operations of reinsurers, IRDAI said.

In the interest of operation of affairs of insurance companies pertaining to their submission of their final reinsurance programme for financial year 2020-21, the regulator has permitted relaxations.

"As per extant regulatory provisions, insurers have to file its board approved final re-insurance programme by 30 April 2020 along with a synopsis of catastrophe modelling report," IRDAI said.

"In view of COVID-19 pandemic, it may be difficult for some insurers to adhere with above stipulated time lines. Thus, the insurers may comply with the above regulatory provisions on or before 31 May 2020," IRDAI said.